You’re in the movie theater, sitting on a throne of recently-fallen popcorn, eyes wide, staring at the rolling credits of a movie so magnificent you wish you could linger in its world just a moment longer. That feeling you’ve got has a remedy, and it’s smack dab in the middle of Florida.
Because I know it can be a little confusing, Universal Studios Florida is one of four theme parks in Universal Orlando Resort. To take things a step further, I know the word “studios” is… a popular one. But there’s only one Universal Studios Florida, and it is the only place that can put you in the middle of your favorite worlds and let you “Ride the Movies” to fully satisfy that never-want-to-leave feeling with the stories you love.
While it may have started as a theme park and functioning studio, Universal isn’t just for the cinephiles. It’s come a long way since its opening in 1990 and is now a hub for fans of roller coasters, animatronics, special effects, themed entertainment, live music, horror, food, and fun. I know what you’re thinking, “how do I possibly experience it all in one trip?” Short answer, you can’t. But don’t fret! With this complete guide to Universal Studios Florida I’ll present all you need to build an itinerary for the perfect first trip! And second, and third, and fourth…
WHERE TO STAY | WHAT TO DO | WHAT TO EAT | WHERE TO SHOP | EXTRA FUN
Where to Stay Near Universal Studios Florida
Your Universal adventure begins waaaayyyyy before you step underneath that iconic golden arch. Sleeping where the action is — if the excitement will let you sleep at all — is how you make the absolute most of your trip. With the 11 hotels Universal Orlando Resort has to stay at, how could you possibly ever choose? Well, let the relaxation begin now because I’m about to narrow it down for you.
Hard Rock Hotel
Live like a star? Say less. Nothing — not valet, not even a limo, no, nothing — says rock star treatment like waking up 5 minutes before park opening (yes, I did the walk and timed it just for you) and being first in line for your most sought after ride because you’re staying that close. Need a midday nap or dip in the pool to cool you off after a day of being in the Florida sun? Walk or water taxi your way back to Hard Rock Hotel. That dip in the pool I mentioned? You can keep the fun going by rockin’ out to some tunes underwater. Just maybe don’t sing down there, k?
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Ah, Italia. When you think of an Italian-inspired hotel, you think of beautiful architecture, classical music, romance in the air, pizza, pasta and bananas. Bananas? Yes, bananas! When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie, that’s not amore. That’s because Gru and the Minions failed at their mission to steal the moon, and thank goodness. Have a family of “Despicable Me” fans excited to experience Illumination’s Minion Land? Start the mayhem early by staying in specially-themed Minion suites at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. One suite is classic and luxurious for the Grus and Lucys looking for a relaxing vacation, and an attached suite accessible via vault door is decked out in the finest Minion decor Gru’s laboratory can provide.
What’s more? You can walk or water taxi to and from Universal Studios Florida, and enjoy full-service amenities like delicious cuisine, three stunning pools, and Musica Della Notte in the Harbor Piazza every evening at sunset. Che magnifico!
That’s not all there is to love though! Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel both offer free Universal Express Unlimited. That means you can fight for a high score on Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast over, and over, and over again.
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
In case you didn’t already know, you’re visiting Florida. A trip to the sunshine state is already a guaranteed getaway, but at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, the only thing that shines brighter than the summery vibes is the affordable rates. You get to stay where the action is, and take a quick walk or hop on a shuttle for a speedy ride to the theme parks with a little extra room in your wallet for all the Shrekzels your little ogre heart can handle.
Not sure which Universal hotel is right for your crew? Check out our guide on how to choose the best Universal Orlando hotel for your visit to find the perfect fit for your budget, travel style, and park plans.
Best Rides & Attractions at Universal Studios Florida
The time… has… come! You see the globe spinning to say hello, and it is finally time to step under that arch and pass through the gates into the best day ever. You’ll travel this guide just the same way you will when journeying through the theme park. Universal Studios Florida is organized into eight sections in one big loop around the park’s central lagoon. Not to worry though, there’s no threat of sharks… anymore…
Illumination’s Minion Land
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
WHAT!? You DIDN’T pack your overalls and goggles? Normally, this would be a tragedy. Lucky for you, the first attraction you’ll encounter at Universal Studios Florida is Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem, where you’ll be zapped by Doctor Nefario and undergo Minion training –– enter the mayhem. The ride is a one-room motion-simulation-based experience with 4-D effects –– complete with prickly cacti, massive fly swatters, lasers, boxing gloves and — you guessed it — bananas.
Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast
There’s something for everyone here! As you travel down Illumination Avenue, you’ll be invited to step inside Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, where you’ll compete for a high score that proves you’re worthy of being the sixth sinister member of the Vicious 6. Grab an E-liminator X Blaster and step onto the moving walkway –– that’s right, there’s no sitting for sharpshooting villains-to-be –– it’s game time.
(Pssst, remember the Universal Orlando Resort App? It has special Universal Play features for this attraction. Make sure it’s downloaded so you can scan your blaster and add to the fun – I mean, evil…)
Meet the Minions
Looking to make some mischief? Make your way over to Illumination Theater to snap a picture and say “Bello!”
P.S. As an added bonus, you can also meet characters from “Sing” at Illumination Theater!
New York
TRANSFORMERS: The Ride- 3D
At TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D, the age-old feud of Autobots vs. Decepticons continues as you’re recruited by N.E.S.T. to protect the All-Spark and defend mankind. No pressure, right? Lucky for you, some friends like Bumblebee and Optimus Prime come along for the ride. Prepare for a 4-D, high-action, motion-simulation-based ride experience that’ll leave you looking at all those cars parked outside of Mel’s Drive-In with one-eyebrow raised.
Meet the Transformers Robots
The best part about protecting the galaxy alongside your favorite Transformers robots? Getting to hang with them after! Meet Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and Megatron right next to the Supply Vault store.
Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
Visit New York to sit in a live studio audience… or… visit Universal where the whole live studio audience goes on a high-speed race through New York? Your competitor is none other than Jimmy Fallon himself! Scream “hey hey hey HEY!” on this motion simulation, 3-D experience, as you race from NBC Studios to different New York landmarks and — uh, the Moon? You might even see some fan favorites like The Roots, The Ragtime Gals and Hashtag the Panda on your adventure through the Big Apple!
Revenge of the Mummy
What made you think visiting a tomb in the city that never sleeps was a good idea? Beats me, because the curse is real! Imhothep is taking over this movie production and you find yourself on a dark ride turned full-out indoor rollercoaster as you try to escape his clutch, soul intact. Should you break the curse of Revenge of the Mummy, you’ll end up at Sahara Traders where you can purchase apparel and collectibles. Don’t bother attempting an artifact heist, outside you might run into tomb guards who take their job very seriously.
The Blues Brothers
Listen to a little soul on the streets with The Blues Brothers! You can catch them driving through the streets of New York and setting up for a live show with their friends Mabel and Jazz.
Vamos! – Báilalo
Depending on the time of day, that soul can get a sprinkle of latin flare with ¡Vamos! – Báilalo. Spanish music floods the scene and before you know it, even the reserved, foot-tappers in the crowd are out dancing with the passion of the pros.
Ready to experience the bustling streets and thrilling attractions of Universal’s New York area? Explore it in depth with our Guide to New York at Universal Studios Florida.
San Francisco
Beat Builders
As New York turns into San Francisco, you’re met with the sweet, sweet sounds of the city — aka, construction. You start to notice that click, bang and whir of a drill kinda… has a sick beat? You’re not imagining things; on the scaffolding of the San Franciscan streets, you’ll watch and find that these construction workers sure know how to take a bangin’ fifteen minute break.
Fast & Furious – Supercharged
Buckle up for thrills as you speed into the world of the “Fast & Furious” franchise! You’ll be thrown into a high-octane chase through the streets of San Francisco as you join Dom, Letty, Hobbs and Roman on a covert mission.
San Francisco isn’t the only city worth exploring. “Travel the world” with our comprehensive Travel the World at Universal Orlando Resort guide.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley
Wander the streets, discover the wizarding world’s most iconic shops, experience the thrilling adventure beneath Gringotts Wizarding Bank, and immerse yourself in the wonder of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley. Go ahead, take it all in –– there’s something new and exciting waiting around every corner in Diagon Alley.
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
As you enter Diagon Alley, you’re immediately met with a roaring flame coming from the mouth of a Ukrainian Ironbelly dragon perched atop Gringotts Wizarding Bank, home to Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. Grab your favorite wizarding friend and get ready for an underground thrill ride where you’ll encounter Harry, Ron, Hermoine, and perhaps a few other notable wizards.
Cast Spells with Interactive Wands
It wouldn’t be a day in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter without a bit of spell casting. You can practice your spell casting at over a dozen locations, all listed on the map included with your interactive wand. Interactive wands can be purchased at multiple locations across Universal Orlando Resort, and in Diagon Alley, you can find them at Ollivanders Wand Shop and Wands by Gregorovitch. Trust me, there are many to choose from — and you can even witness a wand choose a wizard.
Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees and The Tales of Beedle the Bard
With a world as enchanting as this one, sometimes you just need a minute to be still and have that “I’m standing in Diagon Alley” type of moment. A great way to slow things down and enjoy the atmosphere is by delighting in the music of a wizarding world sensation. Stop and sway with Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees as they perform songs like “A Cauldron Full of Hot, Strong Love.” If swing isn’t your thing, join the Wizarding Academy of Dramatic Arts as they use puppets and props to tell The Tales of Beedle the Bard.
Take a Trip at King’s Cross Station
Ready for your journey to Hogwarts? Pack your trunks and head over to King’s Cross Station where, with a park-to-park ticket, your journey continues as you walk straight toward the bricks into Platform 9 ¾ to board the Hogwarts Express to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade!
World Expo
Men in Black: Alien Attack
Here at the World Expo at Universal Studios Florida, we are graced with the opportunity to behold a visiting exhibit straight from the 1964 World’s Fair, The Universe & You – Are We Alone? –– or at least that’s what we tell the public. Answer: No, we are not alone. And that’s why you need to suit up and become the MIB’s newest recruits, so grab your blasters and take a crack at Men in Black: Alien Attack. At this attraction, you and five other recruits will use your last gun to play a not-so-friendly game of alien hide and seek. Get as many points as you can and see if you have what it takes to keep the suit, don the title of agent, and most importantly defend the galaxy.
Springfield, U.S.A.: Home of the Simpsons
Welcome to Springfield, U.S.A., home to everyone’s favorite American family: The Simpsons! If you’ve ever wanted to hop into an episode of “The Simpsons,” grab a Duff Beer, pay Lard Lad a visit, and see what’s all the hype around Krustyland, now’s your chance –– and with no risk of radioactive exposure! Cowabunga!
The Simpsons Ride
Strap in for a wild adventure on this indoor simulated roller coaster ride through Springfield, U.S.A.’s very own Krustyland. Join Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie as you crash through town on an adventure, spotting some of Springfield’s icons and fan-favorite residents as you go.
Kang & Kodos’ Twirl n’ Hurl
After enjoying a Krusty Burger, make some room to fit in a visit to Cletus’ Chicken Shack before your departure from Springfield. Meet Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl. Join the two iconic drooling aliens from “The Simpsons” and pilot your own flying saucer a whopping 10 feet in the air for the best view of Krustyland there is
The Simpsons Character Zone
Hope you’ve brushed up on your favorite Simpsons sayings, because this is your chance to say “Eat my shorts!” to Bart and the fam at The Simpsons Character Zone! Here you can meet a few of Springfields finest residents — and you d’oh’nt want to drive through town without stopping for this meet-up!
DreamWorks Land
DreamWorks Character Zone
Entering DreamWorks Land is truly nothing short of a dream come true, and like all the best dreams, here you get to hang with your favorite pals. Upon entering DreamWorks Land, you’re immediately met with two opportunities to meet some of your favorite characters! Say hello to Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse, maybe learn to move it with a certain lemur king, or compare hair height with your favorite Trolls at DreamWorks Character Zone. You never know who you’ll bump into!
Shrek’s Swamp Meet
My personal favorite meet and greet is with the ultimate Ogre Family: Shrek, Donkey and Fiona at Shrek’s Swamp Meet. Brag about being able to burp the alphabet to Shrek and Fiona or discuss the superior form of waffle with Donkey. Whatever way you choose to spend your time at Shrek’s home is sure to be a good one!
DreamWorks Imagination Celebration Take a break from the sunshine and step inside to join some new friends as they rediscover their imagination by searching the clouds and finding some familiar faces. In this live musical show, you’ll celebrate a few of your favorite stories and sing and dance with characters from “Shrek,” “Trolls,” “Kung-Fu Panda” and more!
Troll’s Trollercoaster
All aboard the iconic shiny, shimmery caterbus for a family-friendly coast with Poppy and the gang as you escape a band of spooky spiders! This color-filled escape with twists and turns will let you soar a bit above DreamWorks Land and back to enjoy a song-filled day.
Po Live!
Our favorite dragon warrior isn’t just a master of kung-fu, he’s also a master of… multitasking? In this interactive experience, watch Po teach guests the art of kung-fu, while babysitting his evasive niece, and trying to cook up something yummy (probably noodles).
Shrek’s Swamp for Little Ogres
While Florida is home to many swamps, this is the one to visit! Even with a theme park full of fun, the little ogres need a place to climb, slide and splash around! While the little ogres run amuck, you can listen to Pinocchio spout some tales –– truthfulness not guaranteed. There’s lots of special details to be found amongst the swamp, and it’s all Farkle-, Fergus- and Felicia-approved fun.
King Harold’s Swamp Symphony, Mama Luna’s Feline Fiesta, Poppy’s Playground, and Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp.
For the dreamers big and small needing to get some wiggles out of their system, you can hop around to different play spaces like King Harold’s Swamp Symphony, Poppy’s Playground, and Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp. You can even play with over 60 cats at Mama Luna’s Feline Fiesta — cat lovers rejoice!
Step into a world of animated fun with our Guide to DreamWorks Land at Universal Studios Florida, perfect for families and fans of DreamWorks classics.
Hollywood
Animal Actors on Location!
Think you have to take a vacation to Hollywood to see the stars? Think again! We’ve got A-listers, B-listers, C-listers, and the list really does go on! A for alpha dogs, B for birds and C for cats, that is. Yes, our stars are so talented they can walk on two and four legs. Come see the very animals that have graced the silver screen as they partner with their trainers to put on a little performance and give you a glimpse into how they make movie magic!
E.T. Adventure
Phone home? No thanks, we’re having too good of a time at Universal to think about that place. Wait, E.T. phone home? Grab your bikes, we’ve gotta get that alien back to the Green Planet! As the only remaining opening day attraction at Universal, this iconic dark ride begins with a greeting from the legendary director himself and sets you on your journey through the forest, over the city, and 3 million lightyears away to heal the Green Planet with E.T.’s glowing touch.
Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show
While the queue takes you on a museum-like celebration of horror films past, this show is safe for the not-so-spooky members of your party. Take a look behind the curtain (not that curtain!), at the practical effects and horror make-up magic that add to the chilling scenes we know and love. This live show blends a presentation of behind-the-scenes knowledge and comedy to create a show that you’ll want to watch again, and again — with audience participation, it’s never the same show twice!
The Bourne Stuntacular
Everything you think you know about stunt shows is old news. The Bourne Stuntacular takes talented stunt actors and cutting-edge technology to take you in to the high-action world of Jason Bourne. You’ll find yourself holding your breath and jumping out of your seat as you watch Jason Bourne dangle from helicopters, be chased across rooftops, and swerve through streets on a motorcycle to get away from his pursuers. How they manage all that on a stage? You’ll have to watch and find out.
Universal Mega Movie Parade
You’re walking from the Horror Make-Up Show to Central Park Crêpes to grab a bite to eat, but you’re stopped! There’s only one thing that could stand between you and a delectable crepe that you’d be happy about. What’s that? The Universal Mega Movie Parade! Larger-than-life floats bring your favorite movies from the screen to the streets of Universal Studios Florida with characters, performers, and beats that bring the party wherever it goes.
Marilyn and the Diamond Bellas
Who’s that riding through Universal in the vintage car with the white parasol? Why, Marilyn and the Diamond Bellas of course! Donning her iconic white halter dress, the starlett performs numbers like “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” and “Candyman” alongside the Diamond Bellas on the stage outside of Mel’s Drive-in!
CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular
Every perfect day needs to end with a bang! Or, in this case, a splash! While during the day, that lagoon we just traveled around is best used to spot directional landmarks, on select nights the waters come alive with fountains that dance to the cinematic scores that stir in our hearts. Watch as music and elements blend to brighten the night with the scenes you love.
See the Stars!
The best part of any trip to Hollywood is seeing the stars! With designated character meet and greets around town and some surprise walk-around characters and performances, it’s sure to be a star-studded visit.
Go ahead, make a bingo card of the following characters and see how many you’ll encounter when visiting Hollywood! With the help of your handy dandy Universal Orlando Resort app, you’ll be sneaking selfies into your action-packed day with ease.
- SpongeBob SquarePants
- Patrick Star
- Squidward
- Woody Woodpecker
- Marilyn
- Betty Boop
- Doc Brown
- Scooby-Doo
- Shaggy
- Fred
- Daphne
- Velma and more!
For a full list and tips, check out our Guide to Meet and Greet Characters at Universal Orlando Resort.
Best Restaurants & Snacks at Universal Studios Florida
Minion Land
Illumination’s Minion Cafe
I know, I know, with all the banana talk it’s hard to believe Minion Cafe would be the spot with diverse quick-service menu items, but you’ve got to taste and see all that they’ve got cooking! From Despica-bowls with ingredients like salmon and cauliflower, to Steak and Cheese “Ray” Sandwiches, there’s something for everyone.
More eats!
For quick-grab treats that you can snack on while waiting to meet the Minions, visit Bake My Day for themed baked goods, Freeze Ray Pops for an icy treat, and Pop-A-Nana for specialty-flavored popcorn — I’ll let you guess the best seller.
New York
Finnegan’s Bar and Grill
Like all great city-based sitcoms, Universal knew its New York needed an iconic bar to be complete — cue, Finnegan’s Bar and Grill. This Irish-American pub has its own fan club of loyal customers as both a bar and full-service restaurant serving comfort meals like fish and chips and shareable (depending on your mood) favorites like their Beer Battered Onion Rings.
Louie’s Italian Restaurant
If there’s just something about New York that makes you crave Italian, we’ve got you covered. Fill up on pizza, pastas, meatball subs and more at Louie’s Italian Restaurant. This quick-service eatery might not be found in Little Italy, but it’s got the Nonna-approved carbs to keep you going on a day of fun.
San Francisco
Richter’s Burger Co
Did you know San Francisco is prone to earthquakes? Me neither, until about two seconds ago when I googled the Richter Scale. If you find your stomach rumbling on levels of seismic proportions, you should stop into Richter’s Burger Co. This two-story restaurant is serving up burgers, sandwiches, and salads with a side of dockside views.
Lombard’s Seafood Grille
As the flagship full-service restaurant of Universal Studios Florida, Lombard’s Seafood Grille’s nautical-inspired atmosphere and elevated cuisine provides a delightful surprise from what you’d expect a theme park dining experience to bring. From Clam Chowder and Shrimp Cocktail to Soft-Shell Crab and Cioppino Ocean Bowls, you can treat yourself to a finer-dining experience with a lagoon-side view of the park.
Chez Alcatraz
If you hear “SHARK ATTACK!!!” while walking through San Francisco, it’s probably because of this place. This walk-up bar is located next to the park’s iconic Jaws photo-op and is known for its fan-favorite drink, the Ocean Attack.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley
The Leaky Cauldron
The Leaky Cauldron is your place to grab a bit of traditional British flavor when visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley. In “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,” this pub and inn housed Harry Potter before his third year at Hogwarts, and after tasting the delicious Fish and Chips and Ploughman’s Platter, I know those dinners were delightful.
Butterbeer
One simply can’t visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and leave without enjoying a Butterbeer! While you can try your hot, cold, and frozen forms in locations like The Leaky Cauldron, The Hopping Pot, and The Fountain of Fair Fortune, you’ll find that iconic beverage in all varieties around Diagon Alley.
Check out the other Butterbeer treats and their locations below:
- Butterbeer Ice-Cream – Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlor
- Butterbeer Potted Cream – The Leaky Cauldron
- Butterbeer Fudge – Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop
Springfield, U.S.A.; Home of the Simpsons
Fast Food Boulevard
With a family full of Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie, it’s too hard to decide on one place to eat, and that’s why Fast Food Boulevard has it all. For your salads, wraps, fruit and light beverages: Lisa’s Teahouse of Horror. If baskets of all sorts of seafood battered and fried strike your fancy: The Frying Dutchman. Chicken sandwiches, tenders, breast, wings and just about anything else: Cletus’ Chicken Shack. Pizzas, salads and more: Luigi’s Pizza. For the iconic “unhealthiest restaurant in the world”: Krusty Burger. Pair a meal from any of the above with a drink from Moe’s Tavern to have the true Springfield cuisine experience.
Duff Brewery and Moe’s Tavern
The only places where you grab a tall glass of Homer’s favorite suds, locally brewed exclusively for Universal Orlando Resort.
Bumblebee Man Taco Truck
Korean beef, carne asada, and chicken tacos –– ay, caramba!
Lard Lad Donuts
Two of the most beautiful words to ever grace the English language: Big. Pink. Grab a donut the size of your face here. That’s really all you need to know. Actually, you can just stop reading now and go get one.
DreamWorks Land
Trolls Treats
Ice cream trucks playing music? Pretty cool. A boombox repurposed into an ice-cream stand? Even cooler. At Trolls Treats you can enjoy a fruity-flavored ice cream swirl cone inspired by the Trolls’ iconic twisty hair-do.
Swamp Snacks
And in the morning, we’re eating WAFFLES! OK, OK, so maybe we’ll have them for lunch, and they’ll be pepperoni or ham and cheese stuffed waffles. Nevertheless, they’re waffles, and that would put a smile on Donkey’s face. At Swamp Snacks, you can find Donkey’s favorite treat along with more swampy eats to grab on your way to go save a princess from a fire-breathing dragon. Not convinced it’s worth a visit? One word: Shrekzel.
Hollywood
Mel’s Drive-In
Park your swanky vintage ride out front and step into Mel’s for a 50’s-inspired diner experience. Slurp down a milkshake or chow down on a crispy chicken sandwich while listening to the good ol’ jukebox tunes. Careful not to get ketchup on your poodle skirt!
Central Park Crêpes
Whether you’re feeling salty or sweet, Central Park Crêpes has the treats to satisfy whatever you’re craving hot off the griddle. Typically filled with a fruit or meat filling, these crepes are made to order with fresh ingredients. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to stop by each visit as the seasonal menu items one-up themselves with each rotation.
Schwab’s Pharmacy
Come hang like the industry megas and moguls of the 1930s and enjoy a frozen treat at Schwab’s Pharmacy. This retro soda shop is just the solve for a sunny day under the Florida — I mean, Californian sun.
TODAY Cafe
No better way to start your day at Universal than with a visit to the TODAY Cafe! While inspired by NBC’s longest running morning show, the TODAY Cafe serves guests all day long with the tasty fuel you’ll need for an energy-filled day in the theme park. The Park Avenue Avocado Toast with smashed avocados, toasted cashew, shaved fennel, roasted tomato puree, lemon vinaigrette, arugula, and radicchio on toasted artisan French bread is worth waking up for!
Where to Shop at Universal Studios Florida
The saddest part of any trip is the realization that you’ll eventually have to leave it all behind. Unless… you take it with you! Let a souvenir soak up your parting tears. Did you know that if you’re staying at a Universal Orlando hotel, you can have all of your in-park purchases sent back to your resort free of charge? Yeah, that means you can shop until you –– well, never drop, because you won’t have to carry a thing.
Immediately upon entering the theme park, you can pay the Universal Studios Store a visit and explore its vast collection of items from all of the fandoms represented in the theme park. Whether it’s clothing, pins, headbands, or wands, grab the gear you need to geek-out all day long.
Illumination’s Minion Land
You simply can’t leave Illumination’s Minion Land without a souvenir to shake and scream “IT’S SO FLUFFY” to. Both Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast deliver you to the doorstep of gift shops where you can purchase anything from the likes of a stuffed unicorn to a fart gun. Choose wisely.
New York
I know I know, it’s hard when your plane back home doesn’t have in-flight entertainment — buuuut you can’t pack the Ragtime Gals in your carry-on. You can, however, browse the shelves of The Tonight Shop and stock up on merchandise themed by some of your favorite skits! If you need a little inspiration, Hashtag the Panda makes an excellent “The Tonight Show” watching companion.
If you survive Imhothep’s little stint with your soul intact, maybe pick up something with a Medjai symbol from Sahara Traders to protect you next time you have a run-in with the mummified kind. Burial tomb and museum gift shop come together to provide treasures that hopefully won’t get you into trouble when removed from the premises
Regardless if you’re more team Autobots or Decepticons, there’s going to be something you’ll want to sport when visiting the Supply Vault. From clothing to mugs to toys and collectibles, there’s something for “Transformers” fans of all degrees. And for you team Decepticons folk, you can go tell Megatron that no, the All-Spark is not available for purchase.
San Francisco
As much as I’m sure you wish you could have one of the cars in the garage packed up and sent back to your hotel for you, alas, you’ll have to settle for miniature car models as your souvenirs from Custom Gear. (Arguably, the wiser purchase.) Custom Gear takes its name seriously; you can pick up your favorite wearable merchandise and have it spray-painted uniquely for you.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley
Diagon Alley isn’t just for Back to Hogwarts shopping — there are endless ways to bring a special keepsake back home with you. Whether from Ollivanders Wand Shop or Wands by Gregorovitch, an interactive wand should be first on your shopping list. For toys and tricks: Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes. For all things dark and unusual, slink down Knockturn Alley and into Borgin and Burkes. For your own little magical creature, head to Magical Menagerie, and for wizarding wear stop in Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions. For the raging Quidditch fans, you can’t miss Quality Quidditch Supplies!
World Expo
Want to forget there’s a life outside of Universal? Afraid you’ll miss your pets at home? At the MIB Gear Shop, you can pick up your very own memory-erasing neuralyzer and grab an emotional support Frank the Pug to fill the void. The shop is filled with merchandise ideal for an alien undercover, and the gear that’ll have you wanting to be referred to as Agent [Insert First Initial Here] the remainder of your trip.
Springfield, U.S.A.; Home of the Simpsons
This isn’t just any convenience store. Kwik-E-Mart is more than just a spot to grab a Duff A L’Orange or a Lard Lad donut. In fact, with all the merchandise to rep your Springfield resident pride, your trip will be anything but Kwik.
DreamWorks Land
High Five Hideaway is where you’ll find all the DreamWorks souvenirs of your dreams. Whether you want to sport some Ogre ears, rock some Troll hair, or grab a plush Po, this is the spot to dive into.
Hollywood
Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? SpongeBob SquarePants! Dive into his world at SpongeBob StorePants, where you’ll find a tidal wave of treasures every fan will love. From fin-tastic souvenirs to keepsakes that bring Bikini Bottom to life, it’s a shell-ebration of all things SpongeBob. With a collection this good, you’ll wish you had pockets as deep as Mr. Krabs!
Now that your adrenaline is spiked after an edge-of-your-seat viewing of The Bourne Stuntacular, you’ll be ready to walk out of the theatre and into Five & Dime to browse merchandise and memorabilia of your favorite Universal Monsters.
The Tribute Store
Imagine your favorite store. Now imagine your favorite store in the hands of a team of creatives tasked with making a highly themed, immersive shopping experience with loads of detail and story elements. If that sounds like the coolest thing ever, it’s because it is. And it happens at Universal several times a year — meet the Tribute Store. This store’s location changes — sometimes it’s in Hollywood, sometimes New York — but if you’re visiting at a time when it’s open, you won’t want to miss it.
Extra Fun Tips for Visiting Universal Studios Florida
While the rides, characters, and shows are all great fun, my favorite things to experience at Universal Studios Florida are often the less obvious ones! Hidden easter eggs, insider secrets, and the “blink and you’ll miss it” details are my favorite things to hunt when exploring a theme park. Universal is full of these experiences for those with a keen eye and listening ear, here are a few of my favorites:
- The New York area is filled with nods and easter eggs to different cinematic masterpieces. Movie buff looking for fun things to point out? Check out the Guide to Universal Orlando Resort for Movie Buffs.
- Many of Universal’s attractions find sneaky ways to honor the rides that came before them. On Revenge of the Mummy, you might notice that there’s a statue in the Treasure Room that looks quite a bit like a certain King Gorilla. In the queue for Fast and the Furious: Supercharged you may see three power switches labeled with EQ, D!, and FF. The first two are switched off representing Fast and Furious: Supercharged’s predecessors Earthquake and Disaster.
- Outside of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, near King’s Cross Station, there is a red phone booth that many overlook as just a simple photo spot. For those curious enough to step inside and pick up the phone, they’ll find it has a hidden surprise to the Ministry of Magic.
- If you’re like me and are desperately trying to zoom in with your eyes to read the papers on the desks of the MIB when passing through the second level of the Immigration Room — you can stop squinting. Depending on team member availability, you can ask an agent if they’re hosting Immigration Room Tours and get escorted on a trip around the Immigration Room Floor.
- Speaking of the MIB, did you know there’s tricks you can pick up to help gain that elusive title of Galaxy Defender? Here’s a few to help you earn the suit: 5 Tips to Become a Galaxy Defender on MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack
- The Krustyland fun doesn’t begin and end on The Simpsons Ride! To the right and left of Krusty’s larger than life head-shaped entrance, there are carnival-style midway games for you to give a whirl! Try your luck at games like Whac-A-Rat, Dunk or Flunk, Mr. Burns’ Radioactive Rings, and more.
- A little past the Bumblebee Man Taco Truck, you’ll see some “Back to the Future” props like the Time Machine and the actual train from “Back to the Future III.” For the wild ones out there thinking about going for a joy ride, these babies are retired and won’t be hitting 88 mph anytime soon. Sometimes you’ll find Doc Brown pacing around talking about that one time he hit his head on a toilet.
While I’d love to say, “That’s a wrap!” on this guide through Universal Studios Florida, I truly never could! This park is full of constantly evolving fun and there’s no way to experience it all without stepping through the turnstiles yourself.
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Complete Guide to Universal Studios Florida was originally published on January 06, 2026 at 10:00AM by Adrianna Santiago from Universal Orlando Blog. Far Beyond Infinity Travel Blog takes no responsibility for errors in syndicated content.
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